MSC to cut free time for Europe-to-India boxes

MSC to cut free time for Europe-to-India boxes    Mediterranean Shipping Co. said last week it will reduce the amount of demurrage it allows for containers moving from northern Europe and West Mediterranean ports to the Indian Subcontinent, starting April 15.
   MSC said it has been allowing up to 14 days free time, but the practice was limiting the availability of containers at a time of equipment shortages.
   'Due to the global shortage of equipment and the need for faster turnaround times for MSC's containers, MSC can no longer afford to tie down its equipment for longer than its stipulated tariff free-time,' the line said in a notice to customers.
   MSC said in exceptional cases, 'and when it is proven necessary, we will allow some exceptions.'